Unwed couples to win new rights

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They will be able to make claims through the courts for maintenance payments, lump sums, each other's pensions and a share of homes.

A woman who forsook her career to bring up children would also be able to claim a share of her partner's earnings.

The Law Commission, which is behind the reforms, says the proposals will make the system fairer and ensure that vulnerable and deserving women are properly rewarded.

But critics say the proposals are a "lawyer's dream" and further evidence that the Government is eroding marriage.

Under current law, the country's four million cohabiting couples have no financial rights if they split up.

The proposals, which apply to gay couples as well, would see courts dividing assets based on an assessment of the economic contribution of each individual.

Generally a "clean-break" system would operate where, for example, a mother would get a house and cash payout but no long-term financial support.

Ministers are said to be in favour of the reforms but there is no timetable to put them into effect.

However there is pressure from campaigners for a shake-up. Last night a Ministry of Justice spokesman said: "The final recommendations from the Law Commission will be published in the next couple of weeks.

"Then it will be up to the Government to decide if they follow them."